Employers invited to take part in MAT2 training program aimed at developing IT workers

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan employers are invited to take part in 2014 session of the Michigan Advanced Technician Training (MAT2) Information Technology program, an innovative training initiative that combines classroom instruction with paid work experience.

“The MAT2 initiative is focused on meeting employer needs and will equip students with experience and skills they need to succeed in today’s high-tech world,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. “The MAT2 IT program is ideal for companies that have a current or projected need for versatile and capable IT talent, or are committed to enhancing and growing Michigan’s young talent into highly-skilled and qualified workforce.”

There are currently 10 highly screened, high potential students participating in the MAT2 IT program, all looking for an opportunity to be matched with an employer.

For the 2014 program, employers have two ways to get involved:

Traditional Model: Companies may interview available students in the candidate pool, and choose to hire one (or more) for the duration of the program.

Test-Drive Option: Companies may interview available students in the candidate pool, and hire one (or more) for eight-week paid internships, which will start in January 2015, allowing companies to “test-drive” potential employees to determine whether they’re a fit with the company.

The 10 available candidates are currently in their first school period at Oakland Community College, and prior to the January 2014 work period, will have taken courses in networking, information systems, customer service, technical project management, and system support, will have completed a comprehensive “Practicum” (assessment of hands-on skill), and will have taken the Microsoft exam MS 70-680 (Windows 7). Before the end of year one, students will have also earned Network+ certification from CompTIA, and will have taken the MS 70-410 Microsoft exam (Windows Server 2012).

Cutting-edge industry leaders, partnering with Oakland Community College and Detroit-based training institute Grand Circus, have driven the development of the IT program and its content. The program aims to fill a void in the IT profession with a growing demand for skilled programmers, administrators, and analysts, while giving students an opportunity to become dynamic employees with a deep understanding of the IT field.

Through the MAT2 program, students earn an associate’s degree from a participating community college, while they also earn a paycheck and gain on the job experience with a participating company. Tuition is paid for by the employer, and in exchange, the student commits to remaining on the job for at least two years after successful completion of the program.

In mid-September, MAT2 was given the Educational Program of the Year Award at the 14th Annual Automation Alley Awards Gala.

Employers looking to gain qualified, skilled technicians through participation in the MAT2 program can learn more by contacting Ryan Hundt, Project Coordinator, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, at hundtr1@michigan.org, or 517.241.2617.

Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy.

For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit michiganbusiness.org. For Michigan travel news, updates and information, visit michigan.org. Michigan residents interested in seeking employment with any of Michigan’s growing companies should check mitalent.org, where more than 87,000 jobs are currently available in a variety of industries.